Roy Brooks

Roy Lee Brooks, born on April 26, 1931, in Sweringen, TX, passed away peacefully at his home in Laguna Woods, CA, on February 5, 2025. He was the beloved son of Roy Brooks and Helen Marie Merritt Brooks. He married the love of his life, Mary Maxine Linville, on November 19, 1955, in Manhattan, KS. Roy was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and his brothers, Wesley and Paul Brooks.

 Roy leaves behind his sons, Scott Allen Brooks and wife Donna, and Todd Lee Brooks and husband Jeff Amos. He is also survived by his sisters-in-law, Aleta Brooks, Dolores Linville, Judi Linville, and Kay Linville; brothers-in-law, Larry Linville and Don Linville; and many cherished nieces, nephews, and friends.

 Roy started high school at Mineral Wells before relocating to Kilgore. After graduating in 1948, he continued his education at Kilgore Junior College. He then transferred to North Texas State College, earning a Bachelor of Music in Music Education in February 1953.

 During college, Roy spent weekends traveling between Denton and Mineral Wells to work as a bellhop at the Baker Hotel, earning generous tips that helped fund his education. 

 In June 1954, Roy was inducted into the Army, serving in the 6th Infantry and 1st Infantry Division bands at Fort Riley, KS. During this time, he met Maxine in Manhattan, KS, and they married in 1955. After his release from active service in 1956, Roy pursued a Master’s degree at North Texas State College.

 Roy began his band directing career in Henrietta, TX, before moving west in 1958 to become a junior high band director in Crane, TX, and later to El Paso in 1964 where he became the band director at Stephen F. Austin High School. While in El Paso Roy connected with music educators across the state to share and learn many music teaching and directing techniques. His dedication to helping students grow resulted in many All-State awards and high school band competition victories.

 In 1974, Roy returned to Mineral Wells to support his father, taking on his fourth teaching role as the junior high band director at Austin Junior High. He held this position for 15 years before retiring in 1989.

 Roy’s life was deeply rooted in community, faith, and family. His unwavering dedication to his wife and children instilled values of excellence, education, and service. Roy's integrity and care set a strong example for both his family and students. He was tireless in helping anyone with a passion to succeed, and his patience and determination inspired many to pursue their dreams.

 Even in retirement, Roy contributed to the community. He gave private music lessons, supported local band teachers, and was an active supporter of the Texas Retired Teachers Association, serving as President of the Palo Pinto district. Additionally, he served as an officer on the board of the Sturdivant Progress Water Supply Corporation.

 Roy's faith guided him throughout life. He was actively involved in the Methodist Church in every community where the family lived. His dedication to the First United Methodist Church in Mineral Wells was evident, often stepping in as choir director during retirement.

 A memorial service will be held at 2:00 pm on Saturday, March 1st, at the First United Methodist Church. The memorial service will be preceded by a visitation at the church at 1:00 pm, and will be immediately followed by a Burial at the Woodland Park Cemetery. Donations in Roy's honor may be given to the Memorial Fund at the First United Methodist Church, 301 N.E. First St., Mineral Wells, TX 76067.